1201 Marquette Ave. Suite 150
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403
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Price Range:
$2,501 - $5,000
Violin Bow: Unstamped Tourte model, G/E
The Maker:
This gold-mounted violin bow is crafted in the style of François Xavier Tourte (1747–1835), who is widely regarded as the greatest bow maker of all time and is often referred to as the “Stradivari of the bow.”
Originally trained as a clockmaker, Tourte began making violin bows around 1774 under the influence of his brother, Nicolas Léonard Tourte. Around 1800, he established his own workshop and collaborated closely with leading violin virtuosos of the era, including Giovanni Battista Viotti and Rodolphe Kreutzer. Their partnership played a pivotal role in the development of the modern violin bow.
Tourte’s innovations transformed bow making, establishing the proportions, balance, and camber that continue to define the modern bow. His design remains the benchmark for bow makers around the world, and his original works are considered the gold standard of craftsmanship, ranking among the most valuable and sought-after bows by musicians and collectors.
Sound & Feel:
Well-balanced and responsive, it draws a strong, warm sound with exceptional handling and playability.
Materials:
Stick: Pernambuco, Octagonal
Frog: Ebony, Gold Mounted with Parisian eye
Specs:
Weight: 58.4 g
Length: 74.6 cm

